Become Fighter
How to parry a jab
A small, sharp tap of the hand that redirects the jab off its line.
A parry is a short tap that pushes an incoming punch slightly off its path. You do not block it with force. You nudge it a few centimetres so it misses.
The rear hand parries the jab. Because your hand is already close to your face, the motion is small and fast. Shadow it alone, then test it with a partner at slow speed when you are ready.
Key points
- Use the rear hand to parry the incoming jab.
- Move only a few centimetres. Bigger movements leave openings.
- Tap with the palm side of the glove, then return to guard at once.
- Keep the elbow in and the chin tucked.
- Follow the parry with a punch while the opponent's hand is out of position.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Slapping with a big arm swing. Shrink it. The glove should travel only a hand width or two before returning.
- Chasing the punch with the head forward. Keep your head still and over your hips. Only the hand moves.
- Leaving the parrying hand out. Return it to your cheek immediately, every repetition.
- Reaching for the jab with both hands. Start with the rear hand against the jab. The lead hand stays ready to counter.
Combinations that use it
- parry-2: Parry, Cross
Related techniques
The rest is in the app
The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Basic defence module of Boxing fundamentals.
Coming soon to the App Store and Google Play.
More from Basic defence
Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.